However, Unilever has increased second quarter Western Europe revenues by 4.7% to €3.4bn, with underlying sales growth in both price and volume.

At a global level, the company managed to increase prices by 5.1% while boosting volume by 1.9%.

Chief executive Paul Polman claimed: "Volumes were robust and in line with the market, despite having taken price increases. This shows the strength of our brands and innovations."

Polman added the company intended to keep extending its brands into new markets, which was the biggest driver of growth.

"For example, Dove Hair Damage Therapy will be in more than 30 markets by the end of the year, Magnum has been rolled out to the United States and Indonesia and the Vaseline Men face range has been launched in South East Asia.

"We also continue to transform the portfolio with the integration of Sara Lee brands largely complete and Alberto Culver progressing rapidly."